(This legislative update is produced by the UH System Office of Governmental Relations and the UH Division of University Advancement as a service to the UH System community, our alumni, and our friends.)
78TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN ITS CLOSING WEEKS -- The 78th Legislative session is now in its closing weeks, a time when many end-of-session deadlines come into play. With those deadlines looming, both the House and Senate are meeting late into the night. Because there is so much activity, this report will be brief. We will, however, send out additional updates as final actions are taken on important bills.
The appropriations conference committee posted a hearing on higher education for 7:00 a.m. Saturday, May 10; however, they are behind schedule and may not consider our article until next week.
HB 3526, which consolidates the research excellence funds, was on the Friday, May 9 House calendar. The House does not always complete their calendar so it may be considered later.
HB 2, a major government reorganization bill that includes a study of university systems, was set on the Saturday, May 10 calendar. Several other bills designed to reduce state funding were also scheduled. HB 3441 makes a number of changes in the eligibility for benefits for state employees. It changes eligibility for retiree insurance, establishes a 90-day waiting period for insurance for new employees, and eliminates health benefits for graduate assistants. (The senate version of this bill, however, includes coverage on a part-time basis). The ultimate decision on all employee benefits rests with the appropriations conference committee. They are discussing this issue.
"UH SYSTEM DAY IN AUSTIN" PHOTO GALLERY ONLINE—Visit the "UH System Day in Austin" Photo Gallery for a look at all the activities related to the visit by some 400 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to the state capitol building on February 18, including images of the bus trip, the pep rally at Sholz Garten, the visit to the Senate Chamber and legislators offices, and the evening reception for legislators.
WATCH HOUSE, SENATE PROCEEDINGS ONLINE—Now you can watch the legislative sessions and committee meetings on line. Click on any of these links for live audio and video images…
Live broadcasts from House chamber and from committee rooms
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlo/house/broadcast.htm
Live broadcasts from Senate chamber and from committee rooms